Luba (Baluba, Kaluba, Louba, Uruwa, Waluba, Warua), Democratic Republic of the Congo

Double Bowl Figure. One million Luba people inhabit the entire southeastern part of the DRC, as far as Tanganyika and Lake Mweru. Although their history is one of violence and warfare, the Luba artistic style is characterized by harmonious integration of organically related forms. Their art has had enormous influence over neighboring peoples. Luba kings and chiefs distribute carved regalia at their installation rituals as a way of extending royal power to outlying areas. The possession of an item of insignia was considered a proof of legitimacy, affirming ties to the Luba court. A new cult, outlawing the ancestor cult, has been the cause of an almost systematic destruction of their traditional art. The present double bowl figure is one of the prestigious objects. Such vessels were used during official ceremonies or to display wealth.  (Two pieces.)

Material:  wood

Size: H. 17”, W. 22”, D. 11”